If you’re anything like me, you probably know what you are lacking, or what can be improved, or what could be replaced by a better quality library or one that sounds better to you. I think there are certain types of libraries you can never have enough of: drum kits, drum sounds, odd percussion, pianos…these should be well stocked. There are about a million sounds you can pull out of a really good Synth Library. Everyone should probably own one brass library for expressive playing and one for orchestral music. It’s a beautiful market out there. IMO, nearly anything you buy is probably a good investment, especially considering the time and money saved in not having to buy the actual instrument, learn how to play it, and record t.

Ah! I think you just answered your own question. First and foremost, improve your room acoustics. If you haven’t already, head over to the gearslutz Studio building/acoustics forum and/or John Sayers’ forum to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. Then get to work!

I think we all suffer to a certain degree of having G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) To answer your question, I think it really depends on what type of music you make. If you plan to make those EPIC cinematic trailers, then you probably have to have the latest software to remain current. Otherwise, think carefully before you purchase anything new (unless it is totally different than what you have). Success and sales can be fleeting.

My friend and I routinely have this same discussion. He wants (but can’t afford) to buy darn near everything new that comes out. He spends a lot of time researching and demoing those products, but rarely makes any music. I have recently had some “buyers remorse” on buying plug in’s that I now realize that I haven’t used in years, but I HAD to have them when they were introduced. Jeez, at least if they were physical objects, I could use them as decorations on the mantle to admire

Anyway, I decided a while ago to start concentrating on creatively using what I have now and only buying new VST’s when the price hits rock bottom. I think any purchases in the near future will be physical instruments like a ukelele or a violin, a lap steel or did I say ukelele
I think that those types of instruments would be far more useful than yet another synth or EQ.
In fact, I deleted 45 unused VST’s from my plug-in folder last night and I’m ready to perform a second go ‘round today. Less can be better in some cases too.

If it makes you feel good and you can afford it and if you will USE it regularly, by all means reward yourself. However, if you really can live without it, then do so. Just wait and pick it up next year at 50% off. You may thank yourself later

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